LoveToKnow Cats:Custom Strays and Ferals

From LoveToKnow Cats

Past Questions

Question: Is there any home medicine/remedy for a kitten about six months old just going into heat? We found her, didn't know her age and she just started her cycle. She will be sprayed ASAP, but not today or over the weekend due to weather conditions we are having. I didn't know if there is there something else to do to make her more confortable? What about a heating pad? It sounds silly as I type this question, but maybe there is something I can do to help her. Thank you. - Posted by: KMD921@MSN.com

Answer: Hi Kathleen,

Your question is not silly. You're just concerned for your cat. Unfortunately, some cats do go into heat rather young and it is an uncomfortable time for them and you. Cats in heat will often yowl, beg to be let outside and even moan in what sounds like pain.

Here are some things that may help, until this passes or you are able to get her spayed:

Whatever you do, do not let her get outside. A female cat in heat will attract any and likely all male unneutered cats in the area. A male cat can take about 20 seconds to mate with a female and a femal will often mate with more than one male. This means that within a few minutes, she could have several chances to get pregnant.

Heat cycles tend to last five to seven days, but can occur one right oafter the other.

Some owners do believe that a heat pad helps ease a cat's pain. It might just be that the pad distracts the cat. I would use one cautiously as you don't want to cause injury to the cat or set your home on fire. Some owners also report that cool pads are of help, so you could experiment with both or buy one of the pads that can go from freezer to microwave.

Good luck! - posted by:LoriSoard

Question: I have a male, black and white cat that I've had for a month. He won't come to me. He's always running away from me. Every time I try to show him some attention, he jumps out of my arms. I do feed him and make sure he has enough water or milk to drink. But I just can't get him to grow attached to me. Why is that? What shall I do? - Posted by: bckymcknght@yahoo.com

Answer: Hi Becky,

Was the cat a stray? It's possible he was a feral cat. It can take a feral cat a long time to become affectionate. If he was not feral, part of this might just be his personality. Be patient and continue to show him love and excellent care. Over time, you can teach him to enjoy your attention more, although he may never be a lap cat.

We had a shelter cat that was very standoffish in this way. It took several years, but she will now lay in bed with my daughter and come to us to be petted. She still does not like to sit on anyone's lap, however.

Hope this helps :) - posted by:LoriSoard